Suffering

 “I have often longed to save those whom I love from the strain and stress of suffering, but I never could; and today I have read these words in Coneybeare’s translation of Romans 5: 3-5.

 ‘We know that by suffering is wrought steadfastness, and steadfastness is the proof of soundness, and proof gives rise to hope; and our hope cannot shame us in the day of trial; because the love of God is shed forth in our hearts by the Holy Spirit, Who has been given to us.’

Suffering, steadfastness, soundness, hope, love – what great words these are and how arresting is the order in which they are set.  We may not change the order.  Eternal Love set them in that order and Eternal Love will justify that order if only we go on in peace and are never offended in Him.”

Taken from Edges of His Ways by Amy Carmichael - copyright 1985 Dohnavur Fellowship

August 19^th devotional